Along with Councillor Green, we received support from council on a Community Benefits Agreement. I currently sit on the Community Benefits Working Group and will continue doing so. Through this work and current city policy, we are well poised to create local jobs and training and affordable housing along the b-line and near the b-line.

When LRT goes ahead during the next term of Council I will ensure, as Ward 2 City Councillor, that we work with the Hamilton Community Benefits Network to address much-needed community and social infrastructure. We need a balanced approach to all LRT-corridor development to ensure that not only does the City benefit from the increased taxes that will be collected but also so that the community who currently rely on transit is not displaced. We must ensure that we diversify development along the corridor and that we employ inclusionary zoning principles that consider the need for affordable housing. From my perspective, this project is not just about transit but will have a significant impact on the entire downtown core, and a large section of Ward 2. We must ensure that there is a net benefit to everyone who continues to live, work, and play in downtown Hamilton.

If the LRT goes ahead. I would advocate for construction stages over time (recommended by Waterloo business owners), improved accommodations for people with disabilities with regards to accessibility to LRT stops, and more consideration to compensating businesses affected by construction. I want the HSR to be a part of the LRT plan. I would recommend an independent transit commission to continue negotiations; An independent commission could be comprised of elected officials, citizen appointees and other vested interests. They would keep in mind the best interest of the stakeholders; the residents of Hamilton.